Newsletter:
Cambodia in review
A publication of the Royal Embassy of
Cambodia to the United States
November 1998
Vol. III No 32
The entire Cambodian people and the international community warmly welcome the agreement on cooperation between the Cambodian People's Party and the Funcinpec Party and on the formation of the government and the functioning of the National Assembly, based on the respect for the will of the Cambodian people expressed through the July 26th election, which certified by the International Joint Observers Group as free, fair and credible.
The Cambodian people are longing for peace, stability, and prosperity. The close cooperation between major political parties, the functioning of the National Assembly and the formation of a new government and the intention to form a Senate are a key to answer the people's aspiration. The Cambodian people believe that the current formula is the best formula and is acceptable, for it unites Cambodians on the basis of national reconciliation and national interests instead of remaining in the deadlock and prolonging the Cambodians' sufferings. A proverb goes that united we stand, divided we fall. Based on this spirit, I believe that the close cooperation between Cambodians living outside and inside the country is also imperative for rebuilding Cambodia, and for peace, security, democracy and development in Cambodia.
With a new government in place, Cambodia will regain international recognition, resumption of foreign aid and investments, both private and public, and join Association of South East Asia Nations as member. These, together with stability, will fuel economy, which has been stagnant for more than a year, and contribute to enhance the living conditions of the people of Cambodia. In this regard, I would like to take this opportunity to appeal to U.S. investors to look for the opportunity to invest in Cambodia or provide any transfer technology that helps Cambodians rebuild their country. I would like to stress that Cambodia is now open for business.
Cambodia has boarded the train towards economic progress and reconciliation and it is the requirement and necessity of all Cambodians and Cambodian friends to help them have a safe journey in this train.
The Cambodian people are very grateful to the international community, particularly the United States, for their support and assistance rendered to them for the reconstruction and development of their country.
Yours sincerely,
Var Huoth
Ambassador
Joint Communiqué On The Principles Of Cooperation Between
The CPP And The FuncinpecThe Royal Embassy of Cambodia would like to publish in its entirety the content of the Joint Communiqué reached between the Cambodian People's Party (CPP) and the Funcinpec Party under the high Chairmanship of His Majesty The King on November 13, 1998, in Phnom Penh as in the following:
On the occasion of the Summit on November 12-13, 1998, between the CPP and the FUNCINPEC, under the auspicious Chairmanship of His Majesty Norodom Sihanouk, King of Cambodia, a number of the following principles, which was solemnly endorsed by His Majesty, were unanimously adopted:
i)- the two Parties agreed to the establishment of a Senate through amending the current Constitution. The main important principles are stated in the annex 1,
ii)-the CPP supported the candidacy of Samdech Krom Preah Norodom Ranariddh for the post of National Assembly President (Speaker),
iii)-the FUNCINPEC supported the candidacy of Samdech Chea Sim for the post of Senate President (Speaker),
iv)-the CPP supported candidacies of the FUNCINPEC for 2 Vice Presidents of the Senate. FUNCINPEC supported candidacies of the CPP for 2 Vice Presidents (Deputy Speakers) of the National Assembly,
v)- the FUNCINPEC supported the sole candidacy of Samdech Hun Sen for the Prime Minister of the Royal Government. The preparation and the composition of the new Royal Government will be discussed within the Committee of the two Parties,
vi)-the CPP and the FUNCINPEC accepted the principles for setting up Committees of the National Assembly 4 + 4 + 1 i. e. the CPP will chair four Committees, the FUNCINPEC four, and the Sam Rainsy Party one,
vii)-the National Assembly will convene on November 25, 1998,
viii)-the CPP and the FUNCINPEC will set up Committees:
a)- to prepare a joint political platform,
b)- to prepare a Protocol on Cooperation between the two Parties,
c)- to amend the Constitution and other related laws so as to create a Senate as stated in the first clause of this Communiqué,
ix)-the CPP and the FUNCINPEC agreed to form a new Coalition Royal Government with Samdech Hun Sen as Prime Minister, and
x)- the Summit unanimously agreed on the reintegration of armed forces in the same previous framework.
The CPP and the FUNCINPEC would like to express their most profound gratitude to His Majesty Norodom Sihanouk, King of Cambodia for his noble role in uniting and reconciling the nation, specifically making this Summit a brilliant success for the sake of the supreme interests of the nation and people of Cambodia in a new historic stage.
This communiqué was signed by H.M. Norodom Sihanouk, H.R.H Samdech Krom Preah Norodom Ranariddh, H.E. Samdech Hun Sen, H.E. Sok An, H.E You Hokry, and H.E. Tol Lah.
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International Opinion Welcomes The Agreement
Between Cambodian Political parties*The United States on November 15, 1998 welcomed Cambodia's coalition government deal between the Cambodian People's Party and the Funcinpec Party as a promising start on the path towards political reconciliation.
"The United States have long supported the formation of a representative government which provides for genuine power sharing in a coalition. The US commends this important role His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk has played in bringing the parties together and promoting peace and stability in Cambodia," said a statement from the US Embassy in Phnom Penh. "We believe his initiative to take steps to provide for security of opposition leaders was a key to enabling talks on forming a new government to go forward."
*"The European Union (EU) warmly welcomes the agreement announced on November 13, 1998, on the main elements for the formation of a new coalition government in Cambodia," said an EU presidency declaration issued on November 19, 1998. "The EU congratulates the parties on the constructive approach which led to the agreement, and pays tribute to the leadership of His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk whose role has been crucial to the successful outcome."
"The EU hopes that all sides will continue with this positive approach so that the final details of the coalition arrangement can be agreed and a new government installed as soon as possible. The EU, which provided substantial support for the electoral process, will then consider the full resumption of aid to Cambodia to assist the country in its reconstruction." the declaration said.
The EU also looks forward to working with the new government on other issues such as human rights and environmental concerns, the declaration concluded.
*"The Japanese Government welcome the basic agreement reached between the two parties on the establishment of a coalition government," Japanese Foreign Minister Massahiko Komura said in a statement on November 13, 1998 in Kuala Lumpur where he was attending meetings of the Asia-pacific Economic Cooperation forum. "We strongly hope the function of parliament will be restored promptly and a new government will be established."
"Our country will continue to help Cambodian efforts towards the reconstruction of the country," he added in the statement. "We pay our respect to the leadership His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk showed as father of the country."
*On November 16, 1998, the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of France issued a statement hailing the signing of the November 13 accord between the CPP and the Funcinpec for constituting a new government under the aegis of His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk.
"We encourage all parties, who showed responsibility in concluding this accord, to continue cooperating constructively for its implementation. We hails the prospects that are now opening up for Cambodia to win back its position within the international community," the statement said.
"May it also, with the help of the international contributors, dedicate itself fully to this development," the statement concluded.
*In a regular press conference on November 17, 1998, Mr. Tang Guoqiang, Spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China said that China extended congratulations on the great progress scored in the meeting between the Cambodian People's Party and the Funcinpec Party under the leadership of His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk.
"China highly praise the special and important role played by His Majesty the King in safeguarding political stability and promoting national reconciliation. The peaceful settlement of the political crisis demonstrates the Cambodian people's ability to handle their domestic affairs and the spirit in which the leaders of the two major parties are responsible for the country and the nation," Mr. Tang continued.
He concluded his statement by stressing that China hopes under the leadership of the leadership of His Majesty the King, all Cambodian parties will take the progress as an opportunity, and carry out sincere cooperation in building the country in unity, and bringing a peaceful, stable and developing Cambodia into the 21st century.
*Canadian Foreign Minister, IIoyd Axworthy said in a statement on November 15, 1998 that he was encouraged by the creation of a coalition government in Cambodia, which could end the political impasse of the past four months.
"I am pleased to see that the main political parties in Cambodia were able to come to an agreement reflecting the popular choice which the Cambodian people expressed with determination during the July 26 elections," the statement said. "Now the political leaders can turn their attention to the challenges faced by their country."
*The top UN Representative in Cambodia, Lakhan Mehrotra, said he hoped political violence was now a thing of the past.
"We see the major parties working in unison. We do sincerely hope that the era of conflict and clashes is entirely behind us," Mr. Mehrotra said on November 25, 1998.
*Thai Foreign Minister Surin Pitsuwan and Philippine Foreign Secretary Domingo Siazon hailed Friday as a positive development an agreement reached between the Cambodian People's Party and the Funcinpec Party to form a coalition government.
"I am relieved that they could reach a formula for a coalition government. I am delighted that it will be a chance for Cambodia to have reconciliation," said Foreign Minister Pitsuwan.
"We are also ready to support a credible government elected by the Cambodian people," said Foreign Secretary Siazon.
*"Vietnam hopes that Cambodia will form a new government soon and will maintain friendly relations with its neighbors," a foreign ministry spokeswoman said on November 14, 1998. "Vietnam always wishes Cambodia to have a new government soon to stabilize and build it into an independent, peaceful, neutral, non-aligned, and prosperous country, and have friendship with all other nations particularly neighbors."
"Vietnam respects any decision in regard to Cambodia's internal affairs, and hails the Cambodian parties, under His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk's Chairmanship, have reached an agreement on principles on the structure of a new government," she concluded.
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Samdech Krom Preah Ranariddh Elected To Be Chairman Of National Assembly
The National Assembly of Cambodia, convened on November 25, 1998, elected HRH Samdech Krom Preah Norodom Ranariddh to be Chairman of the National Assembly with 105 votes for, seven votes against and one abstention while two votes were declared invalid. One hundred and fifteen of the 122 Members of the National Assembly attended the meeting, including Second Prime Minister Hun Sen, Samdech Krom Preah Norodom Ranariddh, Funcinpec President, and H.E. Sam Rainsy, Head of Saim Rainsy Party.
HRH Samdech Krom Preah Norodom Ranariddh expressed his thanks for the support of the National Assembly Members and Cambodian people. He also pledged that he would do his best to defend the country's constitution, democracy and development.
"Today Cambodia will step into the era of peace and political stability which is absolutely necessary to bring back prosperity and well-being for the Cambodian people," Samdech Krom Preah Rannariddh said. " I will fulfil my duty as president.. in bringing about democracy, openness and transparency. in allowing, in particular, the representatives of the people to express their will."
"We need the cooperation of all Members of the National Assembly and of the new government, which will be set up in the near future. United, we hope to be able to lead our Kingdom of Cambodia towards peace, national development and glory, as in the Ankor and Sangkum Reas Niyum eras " Samdech Krom Preah Rannariddh stressed. Samdech Hun Sen hailed the appointment and the close cooperation between the parties. "It is a great victory today that we can elect the National Assembly Chairman and the two Vice Chairmen through transparent democracy. The outcome of the votes for the Chairman and the Vice Chairmen clearly shows the close cooperation between the CPP and the Funcinpec," he said after the session. "In my view, today's victory is a good start for the five year term of the second mandate and also for the good functioning of the Royal Government in the second term. We are joyful that we have resolved a major issues, which is vital to our nation's life."
The National Assembly also voted in two vice presidents, both from the Cambodian People's Party. The two Vice Chairmen elected are H.E. Heng Samrin and H.E. Chem Sgnoun.
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Samdech Hun Sen Elected To Be Prime Minister Of Cambodia
Cambodia's new Royal Government of Cambodia was officially formed on Monday, November 30, 1998, after the National Assembly approved the new political platform and a cabinet led by new Prime Minister Hun Sen. Ninety nine out of 116 Members of National Assembly who attended the confidence vote of the new government voted to endorse Samdech Hun Sen as Prime Minister and his 82-member cabinet, while 13 voted against, three abstained and one vote was declared invalid.
"The new government will keep its policy of being neutral and non-aligned, based on peace, friendship and cooperation with nations in the region and the world," said Samdech Hun Sen in a speech delivered prior to an overwhelming vote of confidence in parliament. "We will aim to enhance bilateral relations with other countries in the region, especially ASEAN nations, with the aim of joining together to make South East Asia a region of peace, stability, freedom, neutrality and prosperity. Whenever we enter ASEAN, we will make efforts to be an active and equal member following the spirit of respecting the basic principles of ASEAN."
Samdech Hun Sen pledges that he will respond to the expectations of the Members of National Assembly and the people, who want to see a new government function better and stronger and more effective than before. He stressed that he will conduct widespread reforms of the public sector including the military and judiciary. Anti-corruption, economic reforms, a streamlined civil service, protection of the environment, the respect for human rights are also included in the platform of the new government.
"We will continue to implement free market economy with the aim of reducing poverty," Samdech Hun Sen added.
"The Royal Government of Cambodia will change the priorities in the use of the national budget to serve areas that support production and areas that are favorable for private investment, social affairs and public health," Samdech Hun Sen said.
With reference to the collapse of the Khmer Rouge, Samdech Hun Sen told reporters that that would provide a lot of possibilities for Funcinpec and CPP cooperation, to move forward to the 21st century. He also said that the Khmer Rouge, held responsible for the death of an estimated 2 million people during their rule, must be brought to justice.
Samdech Hun Sen and his cabinet were sworn in the same day at the Royal Palace.
In the new government, the CPP holds twelve ministries among 25 while the Funcinpec holds eleven ministries. The two key ministries of defense and interior still have co-ministers.
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The European Union has said it is considering a plan to provide $3.2 million worth of aid to Cambodia in the future. The aid supports the humanitarian work being carried out by the European Union in Cambodia, according to the national radio of Cambodia broadcast on November 2, 1998.
The European Union is involved in two development programs in Cambodia: a program to develop rural areas and an education program. These are long-term plans. It is expected that the $3.2 million aid in connection with the two programs will be provided in March.
Since March 1997, the European Union has provided $5.9million worth of aid to Cambodia for European Union programs in Cambodia.
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Japan Plans To Resume Aid to Cambodian Textile
Mr. Kaoru Yosano, Japan's Minister of International Trade and Industry, is set to announce that Japan plans to resume aid to the Cambodian textile industry at a meeting with the Cambodian Minister Cham Prasith, according to the Financial News dated 24th November 1998.
The aid is expected to be worth US$ 300,000, including machinery, and will be used to fund a center to train 240 staff a year.
The government-affiliated Japan Overseas Development Corp., the Marubeni Corp, and the Sewing machine maker JUNI Corp, will provide funds and machinery as well as training staff.
The sewing industry is the second largest industry in Cambodia and provides exports worth US$ 95 million a year. Some 100 companies employ 45,000 workers.
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The Royal Embassy of Cambodia
4500 16th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20011